Kato F3A Front Coupler Replacement Choices

After removing the shell from my Kato F3A I decided I never want to go through the process of removing and reinstalling the stock front coupler on my Kato F3A again. I see Micro-Trains makes a replacement, their Model 2004. Is this the best choice? Are there any good pictorials on the web showing how to install the Micro-Trains 2004 coupler? I could not find one on the Micro-Trains site.

Thanks

 

is it possible to put a rapido coupler on the front of this loco ?

 

I in no way mean to be rude, just curious. Kato used to sell their F units with factory installed rapidos, but I can't imagine why you would want to use them. If it were me, I would try the new "scale sized" MT couplers.

 

If you plan to use the new MT 'scale size' coupler you best have some really good track work. These are not for the faint of heart as the couplers do not like dips or sudden changes in elevation no matter how small. They are not as forgiving as the original MT couplers. I tried them and had to remove them from my rolling stock. But as always, MRR Rule #1 applies.

 

I'm putting decoders in my Kato F3s and replacing the front couplers with the MT 001 41 050 (2000-1). They have an assembled front coupler that fits exactly and you can use the Kato coupler clip.

John

 

Definitely not the easiest task, but releasing the clip is one of the hardest parts and you'll have to do that with any replacement coupler. Now that you've done this once (and survived) you may find it easier next time.

 

hi Bill

Yes the long term plan is to change all my couplers, i am just starting on my layout and that is something i will need to get done eventually, all my rolling stock and some other kato locos have the rapido couplers installed, i have prioritized my finances for other things that need my funds now like more track, points, scenery, rolling stock and locos, but I will eventually get to the couplers, i also have a small layout and try to save money where possible, so i will stick to the rapido couplers for the time being. Thanks for all your responses i don't know how i will get that rapido coupler put back on the back of that loco, i may have to superglue that plastic square which came off from the back truck and try again.

 

Claton,

You may have a larger problem than you realize. I am almost positive that the plastic used on the trucks is actually Delrin and if that is the case superglue will not hold. You may have to purchase a complete new truck from the parts dpt at KATO USA. I do not know of any glue that will hold the Delrin.

I hope that I am mistaken. Always have fun,
Carl

 

hi Carl

thanks for this information, yea that one of my worst fears i will take a photo of that part which has come off and post here later.

 

ok so this is what snapped off the back of the loco

http://imgur.com/a/cZIsd

I managed to superglue it back,

http://imgur.com/a/rXn5q

now how do i fit a rapido coupler back in there without breaking that plastic U again.

 

See here: http://www.pbase.com/atsf_arizona/kato_n_scale_unimate_install

Which has photos of the 'tricks' that N scalers have developed over the years for putting couplers in the Kato F's and E's.


http://www.pbase.com/atsf_arizona/image/113917888

 

wow thanks for that link will take a look !

 

yes so this is the stub i had broken off

http://www.pbase.com/atsf_arizona/image/113917867

 

I'm not sure if that will hold. There's very little surface area for the glue to hold, if it holds based on the Delrin comment above.

 

Is there space to bodymount a coupler box?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

well the superglue seems to work, i had to undo the super glue, push the rapido coupler in then superglue again i tested it with a rake of a few wagons for quite a pull and it seems to work, not the ideal outcome but something better than nothing.

https://goo.gl/photos/HQ9Q2F9MA1dnkbDGA